Word has it that Perth is the most remote city in the world. But despite this, or possibly because of it, Perth has developed a solid electronic music scene. Its distance from the rest of Australia has meant that a lot of West Australian acts look immediately overseas rather than bother with the east coast. A sensible move that has paid dividends for Dave Miller (Background), Greg Packer (Looking Good), Pendulum (31 Records) and others. Greg Lawrence (Audiocephlon) runs Kieper Records and this is the label’s second compilation release. Aether 2 brings together a range of downbeat ambient electronic sounds from some of the emerging figures in the Perth scene. Standout tracks include Futuristic Dinosaur by Ele-mental, a delightfully glitchy soundscape reminiscent of the work of Xela or Telefon Tel Aviv. The smooth jazz infused softness of Blue Eyes by Kane and the eerie breakbeat uneasiness of Turn to Shiver by Jaek are also noteable. Complementing the electronic warmth felt throughout the compilation, a couple of dubbed out numbers, Paying Tribute by Manual Bonrod, and Departure Dub by New Sirius Project are both rich in punchy synths, and laidback feel. Twelve tracks in all, by twelve different artists, a well balanced compilation, providing everything from ambient noodling to breaky glitches and somber vocals. Overall, a quality insight into the strong electronic scene in on the far side of Oz.
Dan Collins |
